When to go to Chile

Summer is the busiest time in Chile with many Chileans taking their vacations in December, bringing bigger crowds to areas on the coast like Valparaiso as well as popular spots like Torres del Paine National Park. As Santiago residents often take this time to enjoy their own escapes, the city will be less congested now. January and February are the peak months for tourists at popular destinations throughout the country. No matter where you go now, make your reservations well in advance. Torres del Paine accommodation tends to fill up very quickly and prices will be at their highest of the year. The upside is that the weather will be at its warmest, although in the Atacama Desert, there may be some heavy rainfall over late January and early February.

Those who are here for New Year’s Eve on December 31^st might want to celebrate in Valparaiso with fireworks displays over the bay starting at midnight and lasting for about 20 minutes before dissolving into a massive street party. It’s the largest display in South America.

June through August is winter in Chile, with July the peak of the season. The ski resorts will be open in the Lake District and the central Andes. It’s also a great time to visit the wine valleys and Santiago with comfortable temperatures that are typically in the high 50s or low 60s Fahrenheit, around 15-16 Celsius. For the driest, warmest weather you’ll want to stay in Santiago or further north. In Patagonia, daylight will be limited and temperatures cold, often staying right around freezing in the 30s Fahrenheit, 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. Those who are willing to brave it, however, are likely to enjoy stunning winter landscapes. If you visit northern Chile, expect few crowds and discounted accommodation rates along with the mild weather. Keep in mind that the mountain resorts that draw skiers and boarders will be busier and much more expensive.